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BILLY EVANS. 



J 



dI Jl 

1 |"1 n"^ Sl'AI.DlNG " RkI) C()\KI{ * SlltllS OK 

"IT 



Ai'Hi.tric Handhooks 

No. 81R. 




HOW 
TO UMPIRE 



BY 

BILLY EVANS 




PUBLISHED I?Y 

AMERICAN SPORTS PUBLISHING 

COMPANY 

45 Rose Street, New York 



Copyright, 1920, by American Sports riililishing Company. 







(fi 






The Fans' Question Box 

The editor of Spalding's Official Base 
Ball Guide, Mr. John B. Foster, secretary 
of the New York National League base 
ball club, each year, in the Guide, ofifers 
to answer by mail questions relating to 
interpretations of the playing rules. i\ll 
fans who submit questions should 
enclose a self-addressed, stamped enve- 
lope for reply, and address the inquiry to 
Mr. John B. Foster, Editor Spalding's 
Official Base Ball Guide, 45 Rose Street, 
New York City. 



©CI.A570369 



Contents page 

Publishers' Note 5 

Preface ' 

The Single Umpire System 8 

The Double Umpire System 13 

The Double Umpire System in the American League 17 

Methods of Conducting a Ball Game 19 

Offenses That Merit Punishment 23 

Looking After the Minor Details 25 

Don'ts for Umpires 26 

LTmpires Are Human After All 30 

The Fan and the Umpire - 33 

Play That Always Creates a Dispute. . . » 37 

Correct Ruling That Was Nearly Fatal 40 

The Toughest Decision I Ever Made 45 

Legality of This Run is Questioned 49 

Three Similar Plays— Different Rulings 52 

Balk Rule is a Trouble Maker 54 

Rules Don't Cover Freak Possibility 57 

Play That Always Starts an Argument 60 

A Freak Batting-Out-of-Order Play 63 

Star Players Easy to Handle 66 

The Umpire, Base Ball's Greatest Alibi 71 

Umpire's Equipment Very Important 77 

Umpires Should Be Familiar With Changes in Rules 79 



Publishers' Note 

When the publishers asked Mr. Evans to write a book 
on Umpiring, they did not expect an encyclopedia, but 
that is what it might well be called. Mr. Evans has gone 
into the matter of "How to Umpire" most conscien- 
tiously, explaining every point, and his instructions, if 
carefully followed, will enable the reader not only to 
become familiar with the duties of the most arduous and 
thankless position on the ball field but at the same time 
earn for the one who knozvs — and knows he knows — the 
respect of even the most rabid partisan. 

Mr. Evans' ability as an arbiter and executive is famil- 
iar to every follower of base ball, and now this book, 
which will be a standard authority for years to come^ 
furnishes another interesting sidelight on his versatility. 

American Sports Publishing Company. 




< 
H 

bo 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Preface 

Umpiring is a mixture of good eyesight, to which 
you must add plenty of common sense, an abundance 
of nerve, a dash of aggressiveness and a thorough knowl- 
edge of the rules. Good eyesight is, of course, most 
essential. To make the proper use of superior sight, 
the umpire must figure on being in the proper place when 
the play is completed. In order to do this he must draw 
on his source of common sense and good judgment, and 
figure out the correct angle at which to judge the plays. 
He must be the boss of the game. He must impress 
this feature on the players in a manner peculiar to him- 
self. Few umpires would handle a complex situation 
in exactly the same manner. A thorough knowledge of 
the rules is, most necessary, because a lack of the same 
will quickly destroy confidence. One is never so 
wise at the game but he can learn something new. I 
am constantly getting new views and opinions because 
of my close association with the game's leading umpires. 
Many of the chapters herein have been inspired by dis- 
cussions with the game's best authorities. The book aims 
to give the beginner every bit of knowledge he needs; 
it aims to perhaps give the veteran a new angle to some 
intricate situations. The player who reads it is certain 
to get many new views and facts. The fan who reads 
it will get a new angle to which he perhaps never gave 
much consideration, the difficulties that beset the umpire. 

Billy Evans. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



The Single Umpire System 

Umpiring a ball game alone is a most difficult propo- 
sition. The major leagues as well as some of the faster 
minor leagues are of the belief that it is too arduous a 
task for one man and are using the double umpire sys- 
tem. In most of the minor leagues of a smaller classi- 
fication, the double umpire system, because of the extra 
expense, is too great a luxury. Hence, in perhaps a big 
majority of the games played annually only one official 
is used. Such being the case, I will give my impressions 
of the best methods to pursue when umpiring a ball game 
alone. 

The system of working entirely alone from back of 
the pitcher is now practically obsolete, although in ama- 
teur games where the umpire has no paraphernalia to 
protect him, he is really forced to assume such a posi- 
tion. My observation will be based on the theory that 
the umpire in charge has the proper equipment. 

At the start of the game the umpire should assume 
a position back of the catcher. The style of position 
varies with the different major league umpires, so that 
it is a hard matter to state an exact position. I favor 
working about a foot or a foot and a half directly back 
of the catcher. The height of my position depends en- 
tirely on the attitude of the catcher. I make it a point to 
try and be just a trifle taller than the catcher, as he sets 
himself to receive each pitch. Such a style necessitates 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 9 

that you continually shift positions to suit the actions of 
the catcher. I favor such a system because it enables 
one to constantly keep the ball in sight, a very essential 
feature. It also affords the umpire considerable protec- 
tion, since to a large extent he fortifies himself behind 
the catcher. I am also of the opinion that in crouching 
with the catcher on each delivery, the umpire is in a 
much better position to correctly judge the low ball, ad- 
mittedly one of the most difficult tasks that confront 
the umpire. When I first came to the majors, I worked 
from an upright position at all times, and never shifted 
at all. That is a system some of the leading umpires 
still pursue, but I have been won over to the system I 
have just described. I feel that it is vastly superior. 

Umpires small of stature, who have trouble working 
directly behind the catcher, are often forced to work just 
outside or inside of the position assumed by the back- 
stop, particularly if he is a big fellow. There are some 
umpires who prefer working not over six inches back of 
the catcher, while I favor from twelve to eighteen inches 
away. I like such a scheme, because there is small likeli- 
hood of ever coming into contact with the receiver and 
offering an alibi for something that didn't turn out all 
right. 

Getting over the plays is a most valuable asset to 
an umpire. It enables him to be -excused for what often 
appears to be a mistake, because he has made it apparent 
that he is trying. Thus from a position back of the 
catcher, taken at the start of the game, the umpire should 
make it a point to follow closely each hit. If the batter 



lo SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

hits the ball to the infield, the umpire should move into 
the diamond perhaps half the way down the line and 
assume a position about midway between the foul line 
and the pitcher's box, so that he may view the play from 
the proper angle. Also, in the case of an overthrow, 
should the runner try for second, the umpire is in a 
position to get right over the play, almost in advance of 
the runner. 

In case of a base-hit it is usually wise for the umpire 
to cut into the infield much after the manner of an 
infield hit, only that he should go farther into the in- 
field. First, because he should shift back of the pitcher 
the moment a runner gets on first, and, secondly, be- 
cause he will be right in line for a decision at second 
if the batter should try for two bases. 

With a runner on first only, the umpire remains back 
of the pitcher. There are various reasons for his so 
doing. With a runner on first, the pitcher frequently 
makes snap throws to that bag in an efifort to catch him. 
An umpire would be almost helpless in trying to decide 
that play from back of the catcher. In case the runner 
tries to steal, once again he is in a perfect position to 
get right over the play. Should there be a force at 
second, a try for a double play, or a decision at first, he 
is correctly positioned. 

The moment a runner reaches second or third ; that is, 
with men on first and second; first, second and third; 
second and third, or on either one of the two last named 
bases only, the umpire should work from back of the 
catcher. In such cases with a run or runs in sight, a 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY ii 

play is very apt to come up at the plate, which enables 
him to be in the best possible position to judge it. 

On sharply hit balls down the first or third base line, 
the umpire when working back of the pitcher is at a great 
disadvantage. His only hope is to move over toward the 
foul line as quickly as possible. In fact, I believe that 
the umpire should be up and doing, in action on every 
play. It is just about as easy to move around as stand 
still and is always far more satisfactory. At all times, 
but when working alone in particular, the umpire should 
never lose sight of the ball. If, with the double umpire 
system one official falls from grace, the other one is al- 
most certain to come to the rescue. 



t 



I 



SHOWING POSITION OF FIELD UMPIRE WITH THREE ON BASES 
Very often in base ball the umpire finds the following situation confronting 
him: the bases are filled, and the score is such that the team in the field 
figures it must make an effort to get the runner at the plate. Such an 
action calls for the playing in close by the infield. The question that now 
arises is what is the best position for the umpire to assume, in order to be 
in the best possible situation to see any play that may arise. Since the 
infield is in close, I have always believed it a wise move to shift back of 
the infield. Since the desire is to make a hurried play, the umpire can in 
no way interfere if he is back of the line of defense. Otherwise it is 
always possible to use the umpire as an alibi, in case the defense fails, by 
saying his presence interfered with the play. I have always believed a 
position almost directly back of the shortstop and runner as the best. Such 
a position gives the umpire an excellent view of second and third, should 
any play be made on a runner at either base, through the medium of a 
snap throw from catcher or a throw from the pitcher. His view of plays 
at first vfiW not be quite so good, but by anticipating such plays and moving 
in the direction of the play as made, the umpire can get an excellent view. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 13 



The Double Umpire System 

The double umpire system has done much to solve 
the problem of running a ball game. One official admit- 
tedly cannot always care for the situations that can arise 
in a ball game. It would be necessary for said official 
to have eyes in the back of his head, when two situa- 
tions arise in directly opposite directions. For instance, 
we will say a play is being made at first, and at the same 
time the fielder at third interferes with the runner 
rounding that base. It is impossible for one man to be 
looking two places at the same time. 

With the double umpire system, the man calling balls 
and strikes is regarded as umpire-in-chief. He shall have 
full charge of the game and be responsible for its proper 
conduct. The American League is perhaps the only or- 
ganization which pays little or no attention to the umpire- 
in-chief theory. President Johnson places the two offi- 
cials on the same equality, expects them to work together, 
and follow a certain line of given instructions, which I 
will detail under another chapter, entitled, 'The Double 
Umpire System in the American League." 

It shall be the duty of the so-called umpire-in-chief to 
call the balls and strikes. He must decide whether a 
batted ball is fair or foul. He shall call the balks on the 
pitcher. He shall rule on all batting-out-of-order plays. 
He shall determine all interferences at the plate, whether 
on the part of the catcher or batsman. He shall deter- 



14 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

mine whether or not a batsman in running to first, stays 
within the confines of his fines, or interferes with a play 
being made upon him. He shall determine all ground 
rules that are necessary, and consult with the opposing 
managers as to what rules shall cover the various 
technicalities. If unable to have the managers agree, he 
shall make an arbitrary rule. 

The field umpire shall take up his position at first base. 
His primary duty will be to pass judgment on all plays 
that come up at first base. Just what is the best position 
to assume is a matter that is hard to agree upon, as few 
of the leading umpires have exactly the same style. The 
principal thing for the field umpire to keep in mind is 
that he always should be in a position where he will have 
the ball constantly in sight. This eliminates any chance 
for him to miss a play in which the ball is juggled or 
dropped and almost instantly regained. When acting as 
field umpire I always take up a position about fifteen or 
twenty feet back of first base, and about three feet in 
foul territory. I assume such a position simply to have 
a working basis. A great many umpires work much 
closer to the base. On balls hit to the second baseman 
I change my position but slightly, because I am in a good 
position to keep my eyes constantly on the ball. On balls 
hit to third or short, I move up at the start of the play 
until my position is perhaps six feet from first base, but 
toward the home plate this time. This enables me to 
always keep the play in front of me. If one stays behind 
the first baseman on throws from third or short, he allows 
the fielder to get between the runner and the ball, thereby 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 15 

causing him to lose sight of it, a condition one always 
should avoid. 

Tommy Connolly, one of the game's greatest umpires, 
always goes in on the diamond on all the plays that come 
up at first. He is always in fair territory when giving 
his rulings, while most umpires make their decision from 
foul ground. Moving in on fair territory has the dis- 
tinct advantage of always having the play directly in 
front of you. The only disadvantage is that one is more 
likely to be hit by a badly thrown ball, although during 
his long career such a thing has never happened to Mr. 
Connolly. 

The plate and the field umpire should always work in 
perfect harmony to get the best results. They should 
always make it a point to see that every possible chance 
for a play is covered. 

(i) With a runner on first, the plate umpire should 
always run down to third, ready for a play on a ball hit 
fair, whether a bunted ball, a tap to the infield, or a 
base-hit. Very often on such plays the runner on first 
attempts to advance to third. With a runner on third, 
and more than one base occupied, the plate umpire shall 
decide whether the runner on third leaves that base be- 
fore a fly ball is caught. With only third base occupied, 
it is the duty of the field umpire to handle such a play. 

(2) When a runner is caught between third and home, 
when more than one base is occupied, it is the duty of 
the plate umpire to follow the play nearest the plate, 
and render a decision, even though the out is finally made 
at third base. 



l6 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

(3) With more than one runner on the bases, and 
a play comes up which causes one of the said runners 
to round third for home, it is advisable for the plate um- 
pire to observe the runner rounding third and see that 
he is not interfered with. 

(4) Very often on fly balls hit to the outfield, which 
turn out to be difficult chances, it is hard for the plate 
umpire in a great many cases to decide whether the ball 
was legally caught or trapped. With the double umpire 
system, the field umpire, who is much closer to the play, 
should run out into the outfield if necessary, and by a 
wave of the hand notify the plate umpire as to the legality 
of the catch. The plate umpire in the meantime should 
watch the base-runners, since the field umpire is in no 
position to observe them. 

(5) It shall be the duty of the plate umpire to rule on 
all infield flies. It is up to him to determine whether 
or not he believes they can be handled. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 17 



The Double Umpire System in the 
American League 

There is no umpire-in-chief in the American League 
with two officials in charge of a game. The authority 
of the two umpires is equal. According to the playing 
code, only the umpire-in-chief has the right to forfeit 
the game. In the American League either official has 
the right and would be upheld by Mr. Johnson, although 
the American League President dislikes the idea of for- 
feiture and wants his men to refrain from so doing, if 
it is possible to get around the situation in any other 
way. 

The double umpire system was inaugurated to do 
away with many of the mistakes that occur with only 
one man in charge of the game. It became apparent sev- 
eral years ago that plays would get away from a single 
official, but that such a thing would not likely occur 
with two men officiating. It is still possible for an um- 
pire to slip up on a play that comes under his particular 
jurisdiction, but usually the other umpire in charge has 
seen the happening. In relation to such particular hap- 
penings the system used in the American League differs 
greatly from that followed in most other organizations. 

American League umpires when in doubt as to any play 
that involves something other than a mere question of 
judgment are instructed to request information from 
their partner as to the point in dispute. In fact, the 



i8 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

instruction is even more to the point, for Mr. Johnson 
favors immediate assistance on such plays from the 
umpire who reahzes the other umpire is in error. I refer 
particularly to plays that involve the dropping of a ball 
or an interference. Very often an umpire will call a 
runner out and then immediately turn' his back on the 
play. The ruhng would have been the correct one had 
the ball been held, but it so happens the fielder drops the 
ball just as the official turns his back and is able to 
recover same before the umpire can be apprised of the 
error. Invariably the other official has seen the dropping 
of the ball. In most leagues the umpire under whom 
the play comes for a ruling stands pat on his first deci- 
sion, because he failed to see that the ball was dropped. 
The other umpire, because it is not his play, does not 
interfere, even though he knows the ruling was absolutely 
wrong. In the American League President Johnson 
favors immediate assistance from the umpire who did see 
the play and gives him the right to simply overrule the 
original decision, or, if not, to inform the official who 
made the ruling that the ball was dropped. The same 
holds good on an interference play that is missed by the 
umpire under whose jurisdiction such a play comes. 

The American League executive favors cooperation at 
all times between the two officials, when in doubt on plays 
that involve conditions other than mere judgment. On 
such plays he wants the umpire making the ruling to 
stand pat. But when an outside condition enters into 
the affair he wants the men to cooperate. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 19 



Methods of Conducting a Ball Game 

The successful umpire must be the master of every sit- 
uation. He must rule firmly, but not necessarily with an 
iron hand. He must instill confidence in the players over 
whom he is presiding. That confidence can only be won 
by demonstrating beyond a doubt that he has the proper 
qualifications to umpire, nerve, good judgment, a knowl- 
edge of the rules, and plenty of good common sense. 
Once the player is firmly convinced that the official is 
calling them without fear or favor, he will have won a 
certain amount of respect that greatly tends to make his 
work much easier. 

The modern umpire is clothed with unlimited author- 
ity, which is as it should be. However, it is a sad 
mistake to make improper use of his best weapon. Some 
officials go on the field seeking to immediately put into 
action the wheels of authority which they control. Their 
manner and style is aggressive, their conduct such as 
to show they are almost inviting trouble. Literally they 
have a chip on their shoulder. To my mind that is 
entirely the wrong system to pursue. One will find 
enough trouble on the ball field without looking for it. It 
will just naturally come. The longer one avoids trouble 
by a display of diplomacy that in no way reflects on his 
dignity, the more fortunate he can count himself. 

There are some umpires who go on the ball field look- 
ing as though they were on trial for their life. Every 



20 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

feature is set, it is a serious proposition, they can see no 
humor in any situation that may arise. Of some umpires 
they do say that no one has ever seen them smile. I 
regard the smile with much favor. I believe a smile and 
a word of warning will go much farther with the average 
player than a scowl coupled with a threat, provided 
there is any gray matter lurking in said player's head. 
Occasionally the umpire runs into an athlete who must 
always hear the crack of the whip to be kept in line. 

The successful umpire demands the respect of the 
player, and in turn he should show proper respect to 
the player, just so long as the conduct of the player 
merits it. The umpire, because of his unlimited author- 
ity, should not address a player in terms which would 
cause the player to be ejected from the game if he so 
addressed the umpire. That is taking an unfair advan- 
tage. In some cases, instead of putting a player out 
of the game, I have slipped him a line of talk flavored 
with tabasco and let him remain, because I believed the 
offense was equal. That is not the desired system, nor 
the proper system, but occasionally it affords the umpire 
more satisfaction than the mere ejection of the player 
from the game. The proper way to meet such situations 
is never to place yourself on the same basis as the player. 
Instead of replying in like terms, let him do the raving, 
and you remain silent. It is the ideal system, but as I 
have said, every now and then it is impossible to follow 
it, as the umpire is only human after all. 

Every umpire has his strenuous afternoons when 
everything goes wrong. It is best to try to forget them. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 21 

If you constantly worry, you had better quit. Try to 
start every game with a clean slate. When the day is 
over leave the troubles of the afternoon in the dressing 
room. One cannot be vindictive and be a good umpire, 
as it is bound to seriously affect his work. Work on the 
theory that every player is a gentleman, accord him the 
treatment he deserves until he demonstrates to you that 
he is a rowdy, then in a gentlemanly way, if such a thing 
is possible, handle him a bit rougher than he is trying 
to handle you. If you seek respect, you must give a like 
amount. 



It 



SHOWING POSITION OF FIELD UMPIRE WITH RUNNER 
ON THIRD 
With a runner on third and less than two out, what is the best position 
for the field umpire? It becomes his duty with only one man on, to see 
that the runner holds his base, before trying to advance on a fly ball that 
is caught. In such cases, it is the consensus of opinion of most umpires 
that the best position is to stand 6 to 8 feet back of third base and about 
a foot in foul territory. This gives the umpire a perfect view of any play 
that might be made on the runner at third. The moment a fly ball is hit 
the umpire should move up to third, and so position himself that he is on 
a line with the player making the catch and has the runner before him. 
In case a ball is hit to an infielder and a play is being made at first, all 
he need do is cut in on the infield and get as close as possible. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 23 



Offenses That Merit Punishment 

I am often asked what causes this or that player's ejec- 
tion from the game. The fans see the disputes but sel- 
dom hear what is said, hence the reason for wanting 
to know just how the umpire reaches a conclusion when 
he puts a player out of the game. That is indeed a diffi- 
cult question to answer. The successful umpire must 
be an excellent judge of human nature, and he must make 
an even more careful study of the players' disposition 
than a pitcher does of a batter's weakness. Thus what 
may mean ejection from the game for a certain player, 
might merely result in a reprimand for some other 
athlete. 

It is an excellent thing for the umpire not to hear 
too much on the ball field. By making it appear that 
he has not heard certain things, he can escape situa- 
tions in a graceful manner that might otherwise turn out 
to be serious affairs. The late Jack Sheridan once said 
to me : "An umpire's success is in a large measure deter- 
mined by his ability to hear the things he should hear, 
and see only the things he should see." I have on many 
occasions found that to be a most valuable bit of advice. 

I figure that an umpire must be guided by existing con- 
ditions in a great many cases. It is possible for him to 
overlook an exchange of words with some player, if there 
is no one within hearing. The same remark, if overheard 
by a visiting player, would mean that the umpire in order 



24 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

to maintain discipline, would be forced to put the player 
out of the game. That is merely an instance of what 
Sheridan meant, when he said an umpire should hear 
only those things he should hear. 

The umpire does not care to be shown up before the 
crowd. In no way can a player bring more ridicule on an 
official than by his actions. It doesn't take much on the 
part of the player to arouse the wrath of the crowd. A 
shake of the head, the stepping out of the batter's box, or 
any one of a score of things, can in an unmistakable way 
call the attention of the crowd to the fact that the player 
doesn't look on the ruHng with favor. Such actions are 
seriously objected to by any umpire. No official will 
resent an argument properly presented, and no official 
will resent a player's opinion that he has missed a play, 
if he so complains by word of mouth. It is the player 
who seeks to alibi by some grand stand play that gets 
the umpire peeved. 

In this connection there are a number of stunts which 
most umpires regard as sufficient cause to eject the player 
from the game. The throwing of a glove high in the air 
after a decision that displeases is almost certain to draw 
the gate, unless it escaped the umpire's attention. As 
Umpire Bill Byron once facetiously remarked, the balls 
were made to be thrown and the gloves worn. The grab- 
bing or shoving of an official after a decision that does 
not meet with approval, is another stunt not regarded 
with favor. These are but a few of the many grand 
stand stunts that do not meet with umpirical favor. 



SPALDIXG'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Looking After the Minor Details 

Prior to starting play on any grounds the umpire should 
carefully survey his field and note any peculiarities of 
same. If there are any features about the field that 
might cause a dispute, the umpire should get the two 
managers together and arrange details which would cover 
any situation that may arise. In a great many cases the 
reason for getting a ground rule on a certain feature may 
seem trivial, yet a game often hinges on such a techni- 
cality, and if the official has no definite working basis, 
he is bound to find himself in serious trouble. 

I am often asked what attention is paid to the coacher. 
I have always believed that pepper and enthusiasm by the 
coacher adds much to the life of the game. For that 
reason I always let the coacher go the limit, just so long 
as he confines himself to talking to the batter or base- 
runner and pays no attention to the opposition. The 
moment he tries to annoy the opposition he is either 
silenced or sent back to the bench. 

The umpire should make it a point to appear on the 
field in neat attire. The umpire who goes on the field 
without paying attention to his personal appearance at 
once creates the impression that his work will not be 
unlike his appearance. He should avoid getting into 
arguments whenever possible, either with player or spec- 
tator, because someone must lose an argument, and if 
you avoid them, there is never a chance of getting the 
wrong end of the decision. 



26 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Don'ts for Umpires 

Don't go on the ball field with a chip on your shoulder. 
You will find plenty of trouble without looking for it. 

Umpires hate to lose arguments. Therefore, avoid 
them whenever possible, and you greatly decrease your 
chance of losing. 

Never enter into debates with the spectators. Un- 
fortunately for the umpire, the base ball fan seems to 
have the divine right to say what he pleases and the 
easiest way out is to pay no attention. 

No umpire will for a minute stand for a ball player 
showing him up on the field. Likewise, no umpire, 
because he has the authority, should hold the player up 
to ridicule without just cause. 

Spectators like to see the regular lineup in action. The 
ejection of several players from the game usually robs it 
of much of its interest. Always try to give the specta- 
tors a run for their money, if it is possible to do so, 
and still maintain the dignity of your position. 

It is often possible to escape trouble by not seeing some 
of the things you shouldn't see, and giving the impression 
that you didn't hear some of the things that you shouldn't 
have heard. 

A smile and a kind word often works to far greater 
advantage than a frown and sarcasm. A lot of umpires 
go on the field wearing the look of a man about to go to 
the electric chair. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 27 

Always maintain strict discipline, but don't do it in 
such a way that you create the impression that you are a 
slave driver and all others must dance to the crack of 
your whip. 

Never lose sight of the ball. If you know where it is 
at all times, you are not going to lose very many plays. 
It is worse for someone to pull the hidden ball trick 
and the umpire not to see it, than it is for the player who 
has been trapped. 

Don't turn your head and look the other way after you 
have given a decision. A lot of things can happen while 
you are looking in the opposite direction. 

Show a little "pepper" in your work. If the umpire 
is always on the alert, the players invariably get the 
spirit. If the umpire is content to have the game drag, 
the players seldom offer any objection. 

There are always two ways of doing things on the ball 
field — the right and wrong way — and invariably the right 
way proves by far the easiest. 

Impress the players that you are the boss, that you 
intend to run the game with a firm hand, and they will 
let you run it. Give them the notion that you can be 
swayed, and they will literally run you out of the game. 

A lot of people say umpires are not human. They are 
wrong. It is human to err, and umpires err. If they 
made as many mistakes as most fans insist they do, they 
would indeed be very human. 

After having made what appears to be a mistake, and 
it so happens the next decision favors the team against 
whom the mistake was made, a lot of foolish fans say, 



28 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

the umpire is simpty evening up things. That is all 
wrong. No umpire who ever succeeded for a minute 
adopted such a policy. It is bad enough to have made 
the first mistake, to even up simply adds another blunder. 

All umpires are honest. If you have the slightest 
doubt about it, make it a point to question the honesty 
of an official some day after he has been through a 
strenuous contest. 

Don't render your decisions too quickly. Nothing 
makes an umpire look worse than to render a decision 
before the play is completed, even though he is right. 
Often something happens that makes the umpire wish he 
had not figured the play in advance. 

A good appearance always creates a pleasing first 
impression. Most umpires who are so slovenly in their 
dress, show a similar inclination in their work. 

Never allow a coacher to call plays before you decide 
them. If you happen to decide his way, the opposition 
will insist he is getting to you first. Usually a word to 
the coacher that you will do the umpiring, and that all 
he is required to do is coach, will end the trouble. If 
diplomacy fails to settle the case, there is always room 
on the bench or in the clubhouse for one more. 

Make it a point to start your games promptly on time. 
The public likes it and the public must be pleased. Any 
time you start late, you are beginning the day with a 
mistake. The fewer mistakes you make, the better 
umpire you are supposed to be. 

Make it a point to treat every ball player like a gentle- 
man. If you should find certain players don't conform 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 29 

to that standard, treat them otherwise, [f certain players 
try to make Hfe miserable to you, your only salvation is 
to make it. more miserable for them. 

Always make it a point to be on top of a play. If you 
are right over the play and miss it, you are far more 
liable to get away with such a decision than if you never 
moved, and gave the play while standing fifteen or .twenty 
feet away. 

An umpire must use consideration and common sense 
in running a ball game. If he ejected a player every time 
he had cause, few contests would go the required nine 
innings. In the heat of battle players often do and say 
things they do not mean, and often it is possible to over- 
look some infractions of this sort, without an injurious 
effect. 



30 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Umpires Are Human After All 

Umpires are human, despite all assertions to the con- 
trary. Apparently a great many people believe that the 
men who give the decisions on the diamond are composed 
of some strange substance — possibly mineral or vegetable 
or animal substance, but certainly not a human one. I 
once met a young lady who, upon hearing that I was an 
umpire, seemed greatly surprised to learn that I had a 
father and mother and sisters and brothers; that I lived 
in a house; ate real food; was married — in short that I 
was a human being, able to love and hate, and if stuck 
with a pin would very likely say "ouch !" or something 
worse. 

Each day when the umpire steps on the ball field he 
has eighteen active athletes arrayed against him, as well 
as two live managers, and an imposing bunch of bench 
warmers. There is also the crowd to be considered, for 
as a rule the majority of those present agree with the 
umpire only when he renders a decision that is in favor 
of the home team. Several years ago a very fair minded 
fan asked me this rather pertinent question : 

"When you go on the ball field, who do you try to 
please, and what effects do the kicks of the players and 
the ravings of the crowd have on you?" 

"When I go on the field I try to satisfy myself," I 
replied. "I give the plays just as I see them, without 
fear or favor. When I satisfy myself I feel that I have 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 31 

umpired a good game. Often I leave the game anything 
but pleased with my work, for I often realize too late 
that I have erred. Frequently I have umpired the very 
best of ball, and still been severely criticised for rulings 
which I knew were absolutely correct. If an umpire 
catered to each player and gave the crowd the slightest 
consideration in the rendering of decisions, he would be 
in the madhouse inside of a month. The most pleasant 
part of a ball game to me is when the last man is retired 
in the ninth and the crowd files peacefully out and no 
one blames the umpire for the defeat." 

Despite the fact that umpiring is considered a difficult 
position to fill with satisfaction, it is surprising the num- 
ber of people who are willing to take a chance. In the 
winter time, when the stove leagues are in session, is 
when the umpire crop is most plentiful. When tlie snow 
is on the ground, the heads of the majors and minors 
are flooded with applications from men anxious to prove 
what a great mistake is being made in keeping them out 
of the big show. By spring, when the season is ready 
to start, many lose their desire to try to satisfy fandom 
and decide to stick to their winter job. By July the heat 
of the sun and the withering sarcasm of t4ie fan usually 
has burned up the crop and officials are eagerly sought. 

Several years ago an enthusiastic young umpire 
dropped into my dressing room at the Chicago grounds. 
He wanted to get a job in a minor league. A few min- 
utes later a well known minor league president dropped 
in to see me. I introduced the umpire to the president. 
"I can use a good umpire," said the president, "but I 



32 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

can't afford to pay much money, as my league is an easy 
one for the umpires. All you have to do is to satisfy 
the players, managers, club owners, public and the press. 
and you won't have any trouble holding your job." Fol- 
lowing my suggestions, the young umpire declined the 
job. It was too easy. 

"I wouldn't hold down your job for all the money in 
die world," is an expression that every umpire hears hun- 
dreds of times a year. But most umpires are perfectly 
content to work for a very small portion of the world's 
"mazuma." Most people regard them as a necessary 
evil. However, I think they are very necessary, and if 
you ever watched an important game that was umpired 
by a couple of players, you will agree with me. And 
most umpires are satisfied with their lot. I with mine 
I hope to be a big leaguer for many years to come. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 33 



The Fan and the Umpire 

"Your job would never suit me," remarked an acquaint- 
ance of mine as he stepped into our dressing room 
one afternoon last summer. The game had been a bitter 
extra inning battle, which the home team had lost because 
of a close decision at the plate. Throughout the game 
all of the close plays seemed to break against the home 
club, and several peculiar plays came up which created 
considerable argument. To make matters worse, the 
fans, not familiar with the facts, roared. 'T couldn't 
stand to be abused when I knew I was right," added 
the friend. My partner had just explained the reasons 
for deciding several of the plays as we did. 'T am sure 
there would be less criticism if every fan at some time 
would be unfortunate enough to have to officiate as 
umpire in some important game," remarked the fan after 
he had listened to the explanation. I had to laugh, for 
it was an opinion I had long entertained. 

It is to be regretted that every fan cannot at some 
time act as umpire in a ball game of some importance. 
A game in which there would be keen rivalry, and the 
outcome of great importance to both teams, would be 
the best to educate the fan in the troubles of the arbi- 
trator. It would be a good thing if every umpire would 
occasionally attend an important game as a spectator. 
The experience would prove especially beneficial if the 
umpire as a spectator, should pull strongly for one of the 



34 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

clubs to win and see the chances of his favorites killed 
time after time because of some adverse decision by the 
umpire. This would give the fan a chance to get all the 
thrills that come to an umpir'e in a big game, and it would 
give the umpire a chance to understand why the fans 
rave when one close decision after another is given 
against the favorite. 

I never really appreciated the position of the fan until 
the fall of 191 1 when in the role of writer I saw the 
world series between the Athletics and the Giants. 
While I refrained from rooting like a dyed-in-the-wool 
fan, decision after decision came up that first made the 
Athletic fans tear their hair and the next moment made 
the Giant rooters rave like madmen. 

Plays look different from a position in the grand 
stand. One play after another came up in the world 
series that looked one way from a seat in the grand stand, 
while the umpire ruled just the opposite. Many of the 
plays would have figured prominently in the run-getting 
had they been decided differently. Is it any wonder that 
fans raved when the official gave decision after decision 
opposite to the way the play looked to them and against 
their favorites. 

I realized things were taking place on the ball field 
with which the people in the stands were not familiar. 
From my experience as an umpire, I knew some little 
things that could not be discerned from the grand stand 
were the deciding factors in the rulings. I knew the 
umpires must be right and the spectators wrong from 
the attitude assumed by the players. After each game 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 35 

I went downtown with the umpires and was enlightened 
on the plays that had looked doubtful to me as a spec- 
tator. On a certain play in which the runner appeared 
to be an easy out the fielder had failed to touch him. 
On another play, when it seemed as if the base-runner 
had been successful in stealing a base, it developed he 
would have been, had he not overslid and been touched 
out before he could recover the bag. On a third play, 
where it seemed as if the batter was an easy out at 
first, it was explained the throw had pulled the first 
baseman just ofT the bag. In every case some little factor 
that was not noticed by the spectators proved to be the 
deciding point. Unfortunately, the umpires have no way 
of explaining these things to the fans as they did to me. 
If there was some way in which the spectators could be 
informed as to what really happened on the field, much 
less abuse would be handed the umpire. 




SHOWING POSITION OF FIELD UMPIRE WITH RUNNERS ON 
FIRST AND THIRD 
With runners on first and tliird and the infield playing half way, assume a 
position about forty feet back of the pitcher, and about six feet to his left. 
An attempted theft of second, to draw a throw that may offer a chance for 
the runner to score from third, is the play the umpire must anticipate. On 
this play the second baseman cuts in to cut off the throw and make a play 
at the plate. If he sees the man on third does not intend to try to go 
home, he lets the throw go through. It then becomes the duty of the 
shortstop to handle it and try for a play at second. Collins and Barrv, 
when uitii the Athletics, made this play to perfection. The umpire on this 
play, at tiie start of the throw should move up close to the pitcher, so as 
to in no way interfere with the play. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 31 



Play That Always Creates A Dispute 

What are the rights of a pitcher when he attempts 
to get a runner at the plate after once getting on the 
rubber with the ball in his possession? If a runner takes 
too great a lead off first to suit the pitcher, he has a right 
to drive him back by stepping in the direction of the first 
baseman and then throwing the ball to that player. If 
a runner on first makes a break for second, and the 
pitcher's attention is called to the fact, he has a right to 
wheel around and throw the ball to second base to head 
off the runner, first stepping in the direction of the base 
to which he desires to throw. He has the same right to 
intercept a runner going from second to third. 

The trouble comes when a runner makes a dash for 
the plate from third, after the pitcher gets on the rub- 
ber. The contention is raised that since the pitcher has 
a right to throw to any other base from his position on 
the rubber, he should have the same right to throw to 
the plate. The dispute, of course, hinges on the fact 
that when the pitcher delivers a ball to the plate while 
standing on the rubber it is regarded as a legal pitch. 

Recently a play came up in the Western League which 
caused a great deal of discussion. The umpire wrote me 
about the play and asked me what I thought about it. 
It happened that the identical play came up in the Ameri- 
can League eight or nine years ago. It resulted in a 
protested game and caused President Johnson to issue an 



3^ SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

interpretation of the play for his umpires. Here are 
the conditions : The score is a tie, it is the last half of 
the ninth, the bases are filled and the count is three and 
two on the batter. The pitcher with the ball gets on 
the rubber ready to pitch. He has made no preliminary 
motions, his arms are at his sides. The mqment he gets 
on the rubber, the runner on third starts for the plate. 
The pitcher standing on the rubber ready to pitch is 
slightly bewildered. He hurriedly delivers the ball to the 
plate. It is a wild pitch, missing the plate by a foot. 
The catcher gets the ball and touches the runner coming 
in from third. The Western League umpire and the 
American League umpire called the runner out. 

The American League game was protested, as was the 
Western League contest. The team at bat insisted the 
pitcher had made a legal delivery when he threw the ball 
to the plate, since he was on the rubber ready to pitch. 
As the delivery was wild, it Was insisted that the umpire 
should have declared it a ball, making the fourth to the 
batter, entitling him to first base, and forcing the winning 
run over the plate. The contention of the umpire was 
that the pitcher had a perfect right to make a play at the 
plate, just as he has to first, second or third. When mak- 
ing a play at first, the pitcher is forced to step toward 
that base and then throw the ball to that base,. if he is 
on the rubber. When making a play to second or third, 
while on the rubber, he must step in the direction of the 
base, but need not throw it if he deems it unwise. 

There is no denying the right of the pitcher to make a 
play at the plate, but if he is on the rubber some method 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 39 

for making that play is necessary. If the pitcher, while 
standing on the rubber, threw the ball to the batter, it is 
regarded as a legal pitch. Consequently it was neces- 
sary that some ruling be made on such a happening. 
President Johnson ruled that it was necessary for the 
pitcher to step off the rubber, by taking a step to either 
side or the rear, when desiring to make a play to the 
plate to intercept a runner after once getting on the rub- 
ber ready to pitch. That is the interpretation in vogue in 
the American League and makes an easy play for the 
umpire on what appears to be a very difficult problem at 
the first glance. 



40 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Correct Ruling That Was Nearly Fatal 

During my career as an umpire I have probably made 
many decisions whicli might be regarded as cause for 
fandom to say unkind things about me, and be the excuse 
for things coming my way that I didn't ask for. On the 
other hand, a perfectly correct decision that was in favor 
of the home club almost proved my undoing. So many 
fans have that incident confused that I will relate it, 
because in many ways it was a most unusual happening. 
The game was played in the fall of 1907 at St. Louis. 
Detroit was the opposing club and an overflow crowd was 
in attendance. In those days the double umpire system 
was not in vogue. 

Because of the overflow crowd a hit into the crowd had 
been agreed on as good for two bases. There was a 
swinging gate about six feet long out in the left field 
fence, about ten feet above the ground, about which I 
knew nothing. It was used to facilitate the delivery of 
bottled goods into the park. 

On the day in question it was extremely hot. Some- 
one in the overflow crowd had discovered the gate, and 
by opening it found it provided a light breeze. Up to 
the fifth inning Detroit led by a run. In that inning 
Harry Howell, who was pitching for St, Louis, hit a 
ball into left field. As I followed its course I was sur- 
prised to see the opening in the fence. A few minutes 
before I had observed nothing wrong. I afterwards 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 4i 

learned the gate had been opened only a few seconds 
before Howell hit the ball. 

It was my bad luck to have the ball pass squarely 
through the opening. When Howell made the hit I had 
run toward third base to follow the ball more closely. 
When it passed through the opening I was about fifteen 
feet back of third base. Howell paused at second base 
and I motioned for him to continue home, with the run 
that tied up the game. Wlien the St. Louis fans saw I 
had allowed Howell a home run instead of a two-base-hit 
they went wild with delight. As he trotted from second 
to the plate unmolested he was given a great ovation. 

The Detroit team set up the claim the hit was good 
for only two bases — a foolish contention. I was sur- 
rounded by Tiger players, all talking at the same time. 
There is no fairer man in base ball than Hughey Jen- 
nings, the famous leader of the Detroit team, and I told 
that gentleman the easiest way to settle the argu- 
ment was to get rid of the players, and the two of us 
would thrash it out, which he proceeded to do. 

''A hit into the crowd is only good for two bases," 
said Hughey. 

"Right you are," I replied, ''but this hit didn't go into 
the crowd. It went over the crowd and out of the 
grounds." 

"But the gate should have been closed," argued Jen- 
nings. 

"It wasn't," I replied, "the blame for which I will 
take. When a ball goes out of playing territory, how 
is it regarded?" I asked. 



42 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

*'A home run, of course," answered Jennings. 

In the meantime pop bottles were being thrown from 
all directions, but few had the force to carry close 
enough to do any harm. 

"Then the argument is settled," I stated. "Let us 
continue the game. If we don't get away from here 
some one will be getting killed." 

The next thing I remember was when I came to in the 
hospital and inquired what happened. After the nurse 
had told me in a few words all she was allowed to say 
about the case she switched the conversation by asking 
me who "Kid-So-and-So" was. I told her he was a well- 
known player. 

"You are not very fond of him ?" she asked. When I 
agreed that I was not very fond of him she told me that 
I had put him out of the game only four times in the 
past half hour. 



i 



SHOWING POSITION OF FIELD UMPIRE WITH NO ONE 
ON BASES 
With no one on bases, a good position for the umpire to stand is about 
fifteen feet bacl< of first and about three feet in foul territory. On balls 
hit to the second baseman he need not change his position, for he is in an 
excellent place to see whether or not the ball is dropped or juggled. On 
balls hit to the shortstop or third baseman, it is best to move up about five 
or six feet in front of first base, that is toward the plate and about two or 
three feet in foul territory. This enables the umpire to always have the 
ball in sight and the play in front of him. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 45 



The Toughest Decision I Ever Made 

Umpiring is merely a matter of judgment, and opin- 
ions of plays naturally differ. Two men sitting side by 
side in the grand stand may have opposite opinions of a 
dozen plays. Frequently their opinions are the result 
of partisan feelings. If the umpire put every play up 
to the fans for a decision, base ball would be a wild affair. 
Perhaps what was the toughest decision in my career I 
•put up to the fans and they answered it correctly, 
although against the team they were rooting for. They 
did not know what they were doing and imagined they 
were aiding their favorites by expressing themselves as 
they did. 

The game was at Forbes Field in the fall of 1909, and 
was a world series contest between Detroit and Pitts- 
burgh. Pittsburgh had taken the first game, and wanted 
a commanding lead by annexing the second contest. The 
decision I refer to came up in the opening inning of this 
game. 

A crowd of over 32,000 was on hand. Such a crowd 
taxed the seating and standing capacity. Temporary 
stands had been erected along the right field foul line 
from just back of first base to the stands that stretched 
from right to left field. It was agreed a hit bouncing into 
the stands in foul territory should go for two bases. This 
was to guard against fluke home runs, as it would have 
been possible for a puny fly to drop safely back of first 



46 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

base, and by having been given the proper ''English," as 
a billiard player would say, bound into these temporary 
stands. A hit that bounded into the stands on fair terri- 
tory — those that skirted the outfield — was to go as a 
home run. 

Bobby Byrne of Pittsburgh was the first to face Bill 
Donovan in the opening inning and went to first on four 
straight balls. Tommy Leach doubled to right, scoring 
Byrne. It looked as if the Pirates would pile up a lead 
that would cinch the game. Fred Clarke's sacrifice, Dono- 
van to Tom Jones, moved Leach to third. Hans Wag- 
ner loomed up big at this moment, but he disappointed 
the Pirate rooters by striking out. Miller was next and 
started the trouble. He hit a long drive down the right 
field foul line that looked for a time as if it might clear 
the fence. The ball struck just inside the foul line in 
deep right and then bounded out of view. Leach scored 
and Miller trotted home after him. The fans went wild, 
believing it a home run. 

I was in doubt as to what decision to render, as it 
was next to impossible to follow the ball from my posi- 
tion back of the plate. When it hit the ground the fans 
in the bleachers all stood up and leaned over the railing, 
practically cutting off my view of the final destination 
of the ball. I conferred with Bill Klem, who was work- 
ing the bases, but he was as much in doubt as I, as to 
whether it was a double or a home run. Fred Clarke of 
the Pirates was in insisting on a home run, while Hughey 
Jennings of the Tigers claimed the hit was only good for 
two bases. I wanted to do justice to both clubs, but it 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 47 

seemed the only thing I could do was to make a guess. 
Then I had an inspiration and decided to take the long 
chance it offered. I rushed out into right field with Jen- 
nings and Clarke at my heels. 

"Was that ball fair or foul?" I asked. 

There was none but Pittsburgh rooters in that section, 
as it was reserved for them alone, and in an instant a 
hundred voices yelled : 

"It was fair by a foot." 

It was then up to me to learn into which stand the ball 
bounded after striking the ground. The fans did not 
know a ground rule had been agreed upon. 

"Well, if it was fair, where did it bounce?" I called 
back. 

"It bounded into this stand," yelled back the fans. 
"Yes, and I have the ball and I am going to keep it," said 
one spectator as he exhibited a brand new ball. 

The stand was on foul territory and meant the hit 
was only good for two bases. Neither Clarke nor Jen- 
nings had anything further to say. Miller was sent back 
to second and the game proceeded. The Pirates did no 
further scoring, and lost 7 to 2, Donovan being invincible 
after the first inning. Had the fans not set me right, I 
would have allowed a home run. It would have probably 
put the Tigers to rout, and it might have been unneces- 
sary to play seven games to decide the winner of that 
series. 

That decision was also the cause of four umpires being 
used in the following world series games. Had an umpire 
been stationed in right field that day it would not have 
been necessary to have appealed to the fans. 



a 



SHOWING POSITION OF FIELD UMPIRE WITH RUNNERS ON 
FIRST AND SECOND 

With a runner on first, first and second, or first, second and third, and the 
infield playing out, a good position for the umpire is about forty feet back 
of the pitcher and five or six feet to his left. Such a position gives you a 
chance to shift in the direction where the play may be made. With a 
left handed pitcher working and a left handed batter up such a position 
often gets you on a direct line with the batter and obscures his vision. If 
the batter requests you, as is often the case, simply move about six feet to 
the right of the pitcher in the direction of third, 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 49 



Legality of This Run is Questioned 

A play came up in the American League some years 
ago which involves a question that is a constant source 
of trouble to ball players, from the amateurs to the 
majors, and to catchers in particular. 

There is one man out and a runner on second, when 
the batter singles sharply to left field. The runner on 
second, away to a good start, rounded third and headed 
for the plate. The left fielder made an excellent throw 
home. The runner slid so wide of the catcher to avoid 
being touched that he also missed the plate. The batter 
had gone to second on the throw-in. The catcher, while 
realizing he had missed the runner, was also pretty cer- 
tain the runner had missed the plate. Both regained 
their feet about the same time. Immediately the catcher 
started after the runner, and the runner realizing he 
had no chance to get back to the plate without being 
touched started for the bench. It took the catcher some 
ten or fifteen steps before he put the ball on the runner. 
In the meantime the batter who had arrived safely at 
second, taking in the situation, headed for third, and 
made that base. 

When a player misses first, second or third base there 
is never any question about how to proceed. Some 
player instantly gets the ball, and with it in his posses- 
sion touches the base that has been missed and claims 
the out. The fact that the home plate is the final goal 



so SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

is perhaps what confuses all plays at that station. Often 
a player in sliding into the home plate, misses it, and also 
is not touched. If such player can scramble back to the 
plate and reach it before he is touched with the ball he 
has a right to do so. A play in which the catcher at- 
tempts to touch the runner, and then has the runner race 
to the bench or to any portion of the field, puts a dif- 
ferent complexion on the matter. In such cases all the 
catcher need do is touch the plate with the ball in his 
possession. 

Failure to touch the plate by the runner can create 
all kinds of trouble. In an important game in which I 
was umpiring balls and strikes, the home team scored the 
winning run in the ninth with two down, the batter hit- 
ting safely, scoring the runner who was on second. The 
hit was of such a nature that the runner from second 
beat the play by at least ten feet. The throw was a 
trifle short and the catcher was probably six feet in front 
of the plate receiving it, when the runner crossed the 
plate. He was in such a position that it was impossible 
for him to give the runner any attention. 

One often wonders why many things happen on the 
ball field. That player never did touch home plate, al- 
though he was not hurried. His last stride carried him 
over the plate at least six inches. Knowing that run 
decided the game, the visiting team rushed off the field, 
as did the catcher, who was in no position to see the 
runner had failed to touch the plate. I managed to get 
off the field as hurriedly as the rest, for I wasn't looking 
for trouble. * 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 51 

I had hardly reached my dressing room before three 
or four newspaper men came to inquire about the play. 
From their position in the press box they could see the 
player had failed to touch the plate. The newspaper 
men raised the contention that since a runner must touch 
each base and then the home plate to score a run, that 
the run was never legally registered. They also raised 
the question as to the attitude the umpire should assume 
on such plays. Plays in which a runner fails to touch a 
base are plays which require that a complaint be regis- 
tered by the side affected, and that otherwise the umpire 
shall disregard the error. On such plays if the umpire 
stood at the plate, after the team had left, he would 
reveal that something was wrong and instead of being 
merely a judge of plays, would be acting as adviser to one 
of the teams. 



S2 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Three Similar Plays— Different Rulings 

Here are three plays that puzzle. I am often asked 
to give an explanation of the difference that exists from 
the penalty standpoint. In appearance each play is the 
same, yet three different rulings are possible. 

Play No. I. — A runner is on first and he tries 
to steal second. He succeeds, but the batter jostles 
the catcher as he is about to make the throw. In 
this play the batter is called out for interference, 
while the runner is sent back to first, since no 
bases can be run on such an interference. 

Play No. 2. — A runner is on third, one man is 
out, the runner attempts to steal home. It is evi- 
dent the play is going to be close. The batter 
decides to pull a bit of wise stuff and interferes 
with the catcher so that he is unable to put the ball 
on the runner before he reaches the plate. The 
interference was similar to that in Play No. I. In 
this play the penalty is shifted from the batsman 
to the runner, for the runner is declared out and 
the batsman allowed to continue his time at bat. 

Play No. J. — A runner is on third, two are out, 
the runner on third attempts to steal home. The 
batsman creates an interference similar to Plays 
I and 2. He so hinders the catcher that he is 
unable to touch the runner. In this case, the pen- 
alty is placed on the batsman, he being declared 
out for interference. 

While in some respects these plays are very definite, 
and are specifically covered in a roundabout way, I seri- 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY S3 

ously doubt if any series of plays, in which the action is 
similar, creates more confusion. Other than simply 
quoting the rules which cover the plays, I shall attempt 
to explain why the rule makers have shifted the penalty 
in these three plays. 

In Play No. i, it is the batsman who has grievously 
erred. His interference has killed any chance the catcher 
might have had of getting the runner. It is obvious he 
should suffer the penalty by being called out. Since it 
would be unfair to allow the runner to advance on a 
play in which the fielder making the play had been inter- 
fered with, the runner is sent back to his original base. 

In the second case, there being one out at the time, 
the runner on third attempts a steal of home. A similar 
interference enables the runner to score. A good many 
people figure the penalty should be to send the runner 
back to third and declare out the batsman. Such a 
penalty would enable a wise batter to nullify the play 
any time he believed the runner was sure to be retired. 
To do away with such methods 'the rule makers, with 
one or none out, have made the penalty all the more 
severe by ruling the runner out. 

With two men down, a similar interference results 
in the batter being called out. You ask why not con- 
tinue the ruling as in Play No. 2 and still call the runner 
out. With two down and such a play, some one must 
be called out for the interference. Since no run can 
score, regardless of who is called out, the penalty is 
shifted back on the batter. It has been the purpose of 
the rule makers in inflicting the penalty to make it as 
severe as possible in each case. 



54 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Balk Rule is a Trouble Maker 

On the face it may not seem that the balk rule and 
base-running have anything in common. As a matter 
of fact no two features of the national pastime are so 
closely related. During the past four or five years base- 
running, one of the game's prettiest features, has been 
on the decline. I feel safe in saying the deceptive moves 
practised by many pitchers has more seriously affected 
base-running than any other thing. 

The successful base-runner must be able to get away 
to a good lead. A foot or two on the getaway means 
everything when many decisions are based on a matter 
of a few inches. Ability to get the break by getting 
away with the start of the delivery is a wonderful ad- 
vantage. It is usually the difference between out and 
safe. The brainy base-runner is the player who studies 
the delivery of the pitcher closely and is usually able to 
decide when the pitcher is going through with his delivery 
or when he is going to throw to first. 

Of late years pitchers have so tried to circumvent the 
balk rule that every trick of the trade has been brought 
into play to deceive the base-runner, yet pass the muster 
of the umpire. Many pitchers have developed moves 
to first that so closely resemble their pitching delivery 
that the runner is almost at sea trying to pick the proper 
spot to start his steal. Of course this is all wrong. The 
pitcher's style of delivery and move to first must differ. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 55 

Some do, but it would be almost necessary to get a 
strong microscope to note the exact difference. 

Usually the left-handers give more trouble on the balk 
rule than right-handers. While the major league um- 
pires may be lax, the minors are even more so, and it is 
a caution the moves some of the recruits bring up to the 
majors. A left-handed pitcher joined an American 
League club one year v^ho had a movement that was 
fatal to a base-runner if he took a lead of more than two 
or three steps. It is unfortunate for such recruits, be- 
cause it makes them start a new style and often retards 
their natural ability. If all managers would just get 
over praising moves that are balks nine times out of ten 
pitchers would not be so fussy and base-running would 
be increased. It is possible to develop a good move that 
will hold runners on closely but won't catch many nap- 
ping. Such moves are praiseworthy, but most pitchers 
are not content with that ; they want to catch them off. 



SPALDIXG'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 57 



Rules Don't Cover Freak Possibility 

It is possible to work out some wonderful freak plays 
on paper, yet in many cases more peculiar tangles take 
place on the ball field. Bill Brennan, former National 
and Federal League umpire, had an unusual one come 
under his observation in the early days of the Federal 
League. Brennan's ruling was the common sense inter- 
pretation. I believe it will be followed as a precedent, 
yet the rules do not clearly define what action should 
be taken. 

Lentil recently, when a manager wanted to make a 
quick change of pitchers and had no one warmed up, he 
had a system of jockeying that usually gave him the 
needed time. It delayed the game and displeased specta- 
tors. The manager would hurry the pitcher he intended 
to use to to the "bull-pen" to get warmed up. He would 
then notify the umpire such a player would pitch. The 
rules gave that twirler the right to throw five balls. The 
pitcher would usually consume more time than necessary 
in doing so. Then the manager would decide he wanted 
some other pitcher to work and would so announce to 
the umpire. The new pitcher would take advantage of 
his rights. Often a manager would send in as many as 
four or five relief pitchers, who would simply consume 
as much time as possible in throwing the five warm-up 
balls allowed. In the meantime the pitcher the manager 
really intended to use would be taking advantage of his 



58 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY ] 

manager's dilatory tactics by getting into the best shape i 
possible. i 

This feature was so overdone, the rule makers found \ 
it necessary to take some action that would eliminate the j 
practice. A rule was incorporated which made it neces- \ 
sary for any pitcher sent in as a substitute to continue to ; 
pitch until the batsman at bat has been put out or has I 
reached first base. That broke up the jockeying prac- \ 
tice and made managers more careful about having the ; 
proper pitcher ready to send in as relief twirler. Now \ 
for the freak happening that was put up to Umpire \ 
Brennan for a ruling. 

The game was played at Brooklyn. In the first half \ 
of the ninth, the visitors filled the bases after two men \ 
were down. The Brooklyn pitcher was in distress, and if ] 
my memory serves me correctly Jim Bluejacket, the j 
Indian, was sent in as relief pitcher. Before he had had j 
a chance to throw a ball to the man at the plate Blue- : 
jacket, by a snap throw to first base, managed to catch ; 
the runner at that base napping, retiring the side. Little i 
was thought of the play at the time, but in the last half i 
of the ninth it caused an argument. j 

Brooklyn needed two runs to win. It happened that ; 
with runners on second and third, it was Bluejacket's '. 
turn to bat. Pitchers as a rule are not good hitters, so ■ 
this seemed the logical place for Brooklyn to send in a i 
pinch hitter. A benchwarmer was therefore sent to hit ; 
for Bluejacket. When said substitute made known his j 
intention to Umpire Brennan, a lengthy argument ensued. 
The manager of the team in the field insisted Blue- 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY Sg 

jacket had not done what the rules prescribed he should 
do^ — pitch to the man at the bat until he was retired or 
reached first His snap throw to first had retired the 
side and eliminated that chance. The manager of the 
team in the field insisted that since Bluejacket had failed 
to do so, he must remain in the game; that the team 
at bat had no right to substitute a hitter for him. Bren- 
nan overruled the protest on the ground that the rule 
was not made to cover such a situation, but simply to 
prevent jockeying, and that in retiring the side the pitcher 
had fulfilled his mission. The batter sent in as pinch 
hitter singled, winning the game. 



6o SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Play That Always Starts An Argument \ 

Bill Carrigan is one of the brainiest fellows that ever \ 

handled a big league ball club. Not only is Carrigan a ; 

great leader of men, but he is a close student of the game. ; 

I don't believe Carrigan ever made a foolish kick in his s 

life. Any time Bill sought a conference with the umpire, \ 

he invariably had a good reason. Bill never entered a : 

protest on the theory that he was absolutely right, or \ 

that the official was absolutely wrong. He made his * 

claims because in his mind there existed a doubt and he ; 
sought a reason for the ruling. 

During a game at Boston, in 191 6, a batting-out-of- \ 

order play almost cropped out among the visitors. The ■ 

manager of the yisiting team at the last moment decided i 

to make a change in his batting order. He shifted the ! 

catcher who usually batted eighth to sixth, and dropped ! 

the infielder who had always batted sixth to eighth. ] 

His team had been in a slump, the catcher was hitting i 

the ball, while the infielder for a couple of weeks had \ 

almost been helpless, so he figured moving the catcher | 

up in the batting order might tend to make his hitting j 

of more value. \ 

What nearly proved an unfortunate happening was 

the failure of the manager to notify the two players in- | 

volved of the change. In the second inning after the i 

fifth batter had singled with one out, the infielder who ! 

had always batted sixth, stepped to the plate, when the ■ 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 6i 

change called for the catcher to hit sixth. Evidently 
the players had the hit-and-run sign on, for the man 
on first dashed for second on the first pitch. The batter 
fouled the ball. The same play was tried on the next 
pitch. Again the batter fouled, making the count two 
strikes and no balls. In each instance the runner, of 
course, was forced to return to first base. 

At this juncture the visiting manager became aware of 
the mistake. He rushed to the plate, had the umpire 
show him the batting order and then called the proper 
batsman to the plate, the catcher. The rules provide the 
proper batsman can be substituted the moment the mis- 
take is discovered, and the balls and strikes called are 
counted on the proper batsman. The proper batsman 
then struck out on the next ball pitched, so that nothing 
came of what promised to be a tangled situation. 

Several players on the bench later informed me Bill 
had noticed the mistake the moment the improper bats- 
man stepped into the box, and was all set to dash out 
to the plate and enter his protest the moment the improp- 
er batsman was retired or reached first in safety. In either 
case, had the protest been immediately made, all acts 
made possible by the improper batsman would have been 
nullified and the proper batsman would have been de- 
clared out. It was the following day Carrigan brought 
up what might have been the unusual feature of the 
situation. 

'T am looking for a little information. Bill," is the 
way Carrigan greeted me. *'Say, the improper batsman 
missed either of those two balls he swung at and fouled, 



62 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

and on one of them runner on first managed to steal 
second, would you have allowed the runner to remain on 
second ?" 

The point Carrigan was trying to make was apparent. 
The rule states no bases shall be run or runs scored 
because of any act of the improper batsman. This 
brought up the question as to whether the striking at and 
missing the ball by the improper batsman constituted an 
act. While I had never given the play any thought, never 
having had it come up, I told Carrigan I would allow 
the runner to remain at second. I would certainly 
have called him out, had he been thrown out, hence 
should call him safe if he beat the play. I could not 
figure where any act of the batter would have played 
any particular part in aiding the base-runner, hence I 
figured he was advancing at his peril. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 63 



A Freak Batting-Out-of-Order Play 

Batting-out-of-order plays are common among ama- 
teurs. Every now and then such situations come up in 
the majors. I have officiated in two big league games, 
in which players batting out of their order caused con- 
siderable confusion. 

I believe a game in Washington some years ago about 
wins the championship for freak happenings. I was 
umpire-in-chief, but can take no credit for what hap- 
pened. The situation that developed made every one con- 
nected with the game look rather foolish, myself in par- 
ticular. 

Branch Rickey, a bright base ball man, was managing 
the St. Louis club. Carrying out the rules of the game, 
Rickey, prior to the start, walked to the plate and gave 
me his batting order. It seems there had been some 
doubt in Manager Rickey's mind as to how he would bat 
Jimmy Austin and Bobby Wallace. The batting order 
he presented to me as the official one had Austin hitting 
sixth and Wallace eighth. It was the custom of Rickey 
to have his trainer keep a detailed score. In repeating 
his batting order to the trainer, Rickey had Wallace in 
sixth position and Austin eighth, shifting the two from 
the official order. That is the way the two players batted 
until the final inning. Had not Manager Rickey decided 
to use a substitute batter the mistake would probably 
have never been discovered. He so elected, the mixup 



64 SPALDINC/S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

was disclosed, and one of the most peculiar situations 
that has ever come up in a major league game was thc; 
result. \ 

After one man was retired Wallace came through with' 
a clean hit. Catcher Agnew, seventh batter, was taken 
out and Clarence Walker was sent to hit in his place. 
When Walker reached the plate, he informed me that he 
was hitting ior Agnew. It was the first change either: 
manager had made. I took out my batting order to verify 
it. Then I discovered Wallace had batted out of order 
all during the game, five times in all. Catcher Henry 
of the Washington club was standing at my side as I in- 
spected the batting order and he noticed the mistake. He 
asked for a ruling. 

It was an unusual occurrence. Wallace from the first 
inning had batted out of order, as had Austin. The St. 
Louis players had followed the batting order on the 
bench, which differed from that given me by Manager 
Rickey. The rule on this point is specific. It states that 
when a batter hits out of his proper position, and the mis- 
take is discovered before a ball is pitched to the succeed- 
ing batsman, the proper batsman should be called out. 

According to the official batting order Austin should 
have batted sixth. As Wallace had batted in that position 
when he hit safely in the ninth inning, I declared out 
the proper batsman, Austin. That made two out. 
Walker then batted for Agnew, as had been Rickey's 
intention. He went out retiring the side. Had Walker 
hit safely while batting for Agnew, Wallace would have 
come to bat again in the same inning. The fact that he 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 6^ 

had once batted did not affect the situation, other than 
wasting his hit, since Austin, the proper batsman, was 
declared out. There are some who contend that as the 
two men had batted out of order five times prior to the 
discovery of the mistake such batting order should have 
been followed throughout. The rules, however, state that 
the batting order given the umpire is the official one, as 
there was no big league precedent for such a happening, I 
played it safe by sticking closely to the playing code. 



66 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



Star Players Easy to Handle 

"Why is it that star players seldom make any trouble 
for the umpire ?" That is a question that is asked me | 
time and again. The lover of base ball watches care- 
fully every move of the game, and naturally he has ob- 
served that the real stars of the game rarely kick so 
strongly that it becomes necessary to put them out of the 
game. National League umpires tell me that Alexander 1 
and Mathewson never disputed a called ball or strike. |j 
No American League umpire can ever recall the time 
that Walter Johnson questioned a ruling. In fact, I have 
often heard him tell other members of his team that 
the umpire was right when the general opinion was that 
the official had erred in his ruling. 

It is the same in any other branch of the sport, the 
really great catchers, the crack infielders and the bril- 
liant outfielders, as a rule, accept the decisions of the 
umpires without any protest to speak of. Don't think for 
a minute that these players are of the same opinion as 
the umpire in all cases, positively no. They often believe 
the umpire has erred, in a good many cases they let the 
official know just what they think about the decision, 
but they invariably do it in such a way that any umpire 
with any common sense would have no reason for taking 
offense. I have often heard people say that Eddie Collins 
is not aggressive enough. They form this opinion because 
Collins is not being put out of the game every so often. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 67 

It is a fact that Eddie Collins is an aggressive player, 
but of a type that is not known to the public. Collins 
can protest as strongly as any player in the business. 
When he believes the umpire has erred he never fails to 
register his protest, but there is nothing of the grand 
stand variety in the protest. He does nothing by word 
or action that will cause the crowd to believe that the 
umpire has erred. For that reason Collins is always 
listened to, and given consideration when he enters a 
protest, for the umpires know it is the expression of an 
honest opinion. 

But to get back to the opening question, the real reason 
that star players seldom incur the displeasure of the 
umpire, is simply that they never find it necessary to seek 
an alibi in order to cover up either lack of ability, or 
failure to have properly completed a play. The real good 
ball player can always make good on natural ability, even 
if the umpire every now and then gets him into a hole 
because of a mistake. Umpires make mistakes, so do star 
ball players, both are human, and the star player, who 
has some brains, or he wouldn't be a star, is broad minded 
enough to take all things into consideration. 

The fellows who make the most trouble are the players 
who believe they are stars, yet fall considerably shy of 
that class. This phase of the question holds good in all 
branches of the sport, the majors, the minors, the semi- 
professionals and the amateurs. Another class of play- 
ers who make trouble for the big league umpire, is the 
bush leaguer fresh from the small time circuit. A good 
many of these fellows come up to the majors with the 



68 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

impression that in order to get in good with their man- 
ager they must argue with the umpire, and in all proba- 
bility get put out of the game. I can recall half dozen 
such cases of players now rated as stars. Just as soon 
as they got over the idea, that getting put out of the 
game a couple of times a week was the proper kind of 
aggressiveness, they never made any trouble for the offi- 
cials. 

Major league leaders like aggressive players. The 
minor leaguer who can show pepper and aggressiveness 
of the right sort, has a much better chance as a rule than 
the player who accepts every ruling without a word. A 
player adds no strength to a team when he is chased to 
the club house, or has to sit out a suspension in the grand 
stand. The day of that style of aggressiveness is past. 
It is costly to the owner, club and patrons, for often they 
are deprived of seeing the player who attracted them to 
the park. The modern manager wants the player who 
can be aggressive, yet do it in a way that escapes the 
wrath of the umpire. 

Johnny Evers is one of the few really great players 
who is in constant hot water with the umpires. Evers 
has just one thing strongly in his favor in this respect — 
his kicks are actually from the heart, not actuated by a 
desire to alibi. Evers is one of the greatest players of 
all times, reputed to be one of the brainiest infielders 
in the history of the game. I have never met Evers 
personally. I am told that he is a mild mannered indi- 
vidual off the field, but on the ball field he is a raging 
torrent when all the breaks, as well as the umpire's 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 69 

rulings, appeai: to be going the wrong way. Evers' kick- 
ing has had one good feature, it is not the ahbi sort ; 
simply the nature of the man when in the heat of battle. 

Of the modern ball players Johnny Evers and Eddie 
Collins stand out prominently. They are credited with 
being the two greatest second basemen in the game. 
Arguments galore have been caused by discussion of 
the relative merits of the two stars. There is little to 
choose between the fielding. Collins is the better batsman, 
and on the bases also shows to advantage. Both have 
far more than the average amount of gray matter, and 
clubs on which they play invariably look up to them to 
direct the play. Evers made a great team out of the 
Boston Braves, in fact played a big part in turning a 
second division club into a pennant winner and a world 
champion. Eddie Collins put an awful crack in the Ath- 
letics when Mack sold him to Chicago. He proved just 
the man needed to round out Comiskey's club, and make 
it a strong contender. 

In most respects these two star players are similar 
and practically equal, yet in one respect they are entirely 
different in their attitude toward the umpire. Evers is 
aggressive ; so is Collins, although a great many fans 
do not regard him as that type of player. Evers, with 
his fiery temper, can protest only in a way that aggravates 
the official and results in his ejection. Collins can regis- 
ter an equally strong protest, yet do it in such a way 
that he gets consideration rather than hasty ejection. In 
all his career Collins has never been put out of a ball 
ground, while Johnny has been given the gate in so 



70 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

many contests that he has probably quit keeping track of 
his banishment a long time ago. In a good many cases, 
trouble with the officials means a three-day suspension, 
often a much longer time. It is almost impossible to com- 
pute the great value of such wonderful players as Evers 
and Collins to a team in the fight for the pennant. They 
are almost absolutely essential. 

In that one feature of play Collins has a decided and 
distinct advantage over Evers. He is always in the game, 
giving his club his very best efforts. Evers does the 
same when in the game, but Johnny is often playing the 
role of spectator, because of his failure to see things as 
the judge of play did. Taking Collins and Evers from 
the game is just like taking the leading man from a play, 
in which much of its success depends on the acting of the 
star. Unquestionably the Boston club dropped many a 
game which would have been won had Evers been in the 
lineup. 

Collins comes from the school of Connie Mack. Mack's ; 
theory is that no club in the history of the game won a . 
pennant by fighting the umpires. He insists that clubs 
that spend their energy in fighting the opposition invari- ' 
ably gets much better results. Mack figures that any 
time a star player gets put out of the game, he does not 
only himself an injustice but also his team mates, the 
club owner, his league, and the patrons, many of whom ; 
perhaps came out to see him play. The great success 
Mack has had during his long career makes it appear 
that he employs the proper methods. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 71 



The Umpire, Base Ball's Greatest Alibi 

Base ball is largely a game of alibis. The player can 
always offer an alibi when things do not break his way. 
The umpire stands out as the greatest of all alibis for the 
ball player and the fan. The umpire is not infallible, he 
makes mistakes, but not nearly as many as fan and player 
would have you believe. Often the umpire renders a per- 
fectly correct decision that changes the result of the 
game, yet for so rendering the proper decision he is often 
mobbed and compelled to suffer any number of other in- 
dignities at the hands of the fans, who insist he has 
robbed their team out of the game. 

The umpire is one of the most important cogs in the 
base ball machine, provided he is moving smoothly. Yet 
most base ball fans regard the umpire as a necessary evil 
Lovers of base ball seldom inquire who will umpire the 
game. They don't go to the park to see the umpire per- 
form, as they do to see any of the great stars pitch. 
The umpire will never be a drawing card like Tyrus 
Cobb, Hans Wagner, Napoleon Lajoie, Tris Speaker, or 
any of the other celebrities of the diamond. As a matter 
of fact, the only time the umpire is given the slightest 
consideration by fan or player is when he renders a deci- 
sion that fails to meet with their approval. Usually the 
consideration is of a very uncomplimentary nature. If 
the time ever comes that the fan and player believe the 
umpire is infallible (the time will never come), then 



y2 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

base ball will lose one of its strongest points, the blaming 
of the umpire for every defeat. It is surprising what 
pleasure it gives a lot of people to leave the ball park, 
positive that had the umpire rendered the proper ruling 
on the play at the plate, at second, third or first, the game 
would have been won instead of lost. The umpire gives 
them an alibi. 

Just so long as the umpire shows up for the game every 
day and performs his duties in a capable manner, his 
presence is almost unnoticed. There is never any ap- 
plause for him, as is the player's portion when he pulls 
a great play. There is never any encouragement from 
the crowd, for the umpire is always in hostile territory. 
He is the common enemy of the base ball fan at large. It 
would seem then, from the consideration usually meted 
out to the umpire, that he played a very minor role in 
the game of base ball. When then is the importance of 
an umpire realized? To illustrate this point, I am going 
to relate a situation which a veteran umpire created, 
simply to prove that after all the umpire is a very essen- 
tial factor. I will quote the umpire as closely as possible. 

'Tt is the deciding game of the world series, each team 
has won three games. Forty thousand people are packed 
into the park to see one of the most important games 
in the history of base ball, a contest which would decide 
the winner of base ball's classic. To each player alone 
the winning of the game meant a difference of at least 
$1,500. The player of a losing team in the world series 
is certain of $2,000 for his share, yet the umpire on 
whose decisions the outcome of the series hinges gets only 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 73 

half that amount. A dispute arises just before the final 
game, the umpires have a grievance that cannot be ad- 
justed, and they refuse to officiate. There is a delay in 
starting the game. It is impossible to get satisfactory 
umpires. The game must be played, so there is nothing 
to do but to agree on two players. When the fans see 
that two players, not versed in the art of umpiring, are 
going to officiate, they let out a mighty shout of disap- 
proval. They want so important a game in charge of 
umpires having a reputation for being impartial and com- 
petent. Close decision after close decision comes up 
early in the game, and the player umpires are in constant 
trouble. Before the contest is completed the affair has 
developed into more or less of a farce. A goodly portion 
of the crowd has left the park disgusted. At such a time 
as that," concludes the veteran umpire, "the importance 
of the umpire would be made evident to the fans." 

There are infielders in base ball who never fail to 
touch the base-runner if you take their word for it. 
There is never a play but what the base-runner is out. 
On the other hand, there are any number of base-runners 
who are never touched with the ball if you take their 
word for it. When they attempt to steal a base or take 
two bases on a hit, they always manage to elude the in- 
fielder, if you would believe them. With two such classes, 
it is easy to see that the umpire must of necessity find 
himself in trouble when he renders a decision, for each 
decision must be against one of the parties concerned. 
After such a play the base-runner, if he is declared out, 
goes back to the bench and tells his team mates what a 



^4 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

blind man the umpire is, and usually shows just how 
far he was missed. If the runner is declared safe, the 
infielder lets the world know that he had hirn by a yard. 
No matter how the verdict is rendered, someone is sure 
to ahbi himself at the expense of the umpire. 

Every fan has attended a game in which the pitcher 
by some show of disapproval would let it be known that 
he didn't regard the eyesight of the umpire as perfect. 
The catcher can in various ways, make it apparent to the 
crowd that he is not concurring with every decision on 
balls and strikes. Nine times out of ten the umpire has 
properly called the pitches. In a pinch the pitcher is 
looking for everything. To many of the twirlers balls 
that are from three to six inches outside or inside, are 
right through the middle. If his control is bad, there is 
nothing in the world easier for him to do, than to alibi 
himself at the expense of the umpire. There are many 
things he can do, that just escapes ejection from the 
game, yet are of such a nature that the base ball fan is 
soon wise that he is not agreeing with the umpire on 
balls and strikes. The next day the umpire often dis- 
covers that his bad eyesight was responsible for the 
pitcher's poor control and the loss of the game. 

There is one situation in base ball that invariably gets 
the umpire in trouble, unless the pitch is an extremely 
wide one, or the batter relieves the situation by taking 
a swing. Imagine the bases filled, two out and three 
balls and two strikes on the batter. Have it the ninth 
inning if you want to have the situation all the more 
intense, and the score a tie. On the calling of the next 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 75 

ball really depends the game. If it is a ball, it means 
the game for the home team; if it is a strike, the score 
remains a tie, and the visiting club has a chance to win 
out in extra innings. To the home fan a ball merely a 
few inches inside or outside, high or low, looks like a 
strike, if the visiting team is at the bat. If the home 
team is at the bat, pitches that are just good enough to 
be called strikes by the umpire are regarded as balls by 
the fans. Any time the umpire calls the batter out on 
such a pitch, with the situation I have described above 
existing, he is bound to find himself in trouble. Even 
if the ball is right through the middle, the batter who has 
struck out in a pinch, will invariably alibi himself at the 
expense of the umpire by declaring that it was a foot 
outside. In such situations there are some pitchers who 
never throw anything but strikes, if you would take 
their word for it. On the other hand, there are many 
batters who insist that at such times it is impossible for 
the pitcher to throw other than a ball. 

Often when the umpire appears to be most seriously 
at fault, he is absolutely correct. Such plays are when 
the ball easily beats the runner to the base, but the fielder 
fails to touch him. Nearly every base-runner of any 
merit in the game at present has developed the fallaway 
slide to such a degree that touching the runner is ex- 
tremely difficult, unless the infielder is equally clever in 
handling the ball. A runner like Ty Cobb, the Detroit 
star, gives the infielder little more than the spikes on his 
shoes to touch as he slides into a base. In plays where 
it is up to the fielder to touch the runner to complete 



/- 



6 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 



the out, the average base ball fan watches the ball. If 
the ball reaches the base ahead of the runner, he nat- 
urally presumes that the runner is out. Under ordinary 
conditions the runner should be an easy out, with the 
fielder waiting with the ball, yet time after time the run- 
ner eludes the touch through the fallaway slide, though 
the ball often beats him a yard or more to the base. Such 
plays invariably get the umpire in trouble, for the runner 
is positive that he wasn't touched, while the fielder is 
equally certain he put the ball all over him. 

The umpire is unquestionably the greatest alibi in base 
ball. When he steps on the field he has eighteen active 
players, a swarm of substitutes from both sides, two 
wise managers and a hostile crowd arrayed against him. 
When mistakes are made the easiest way is to try to place 
the blame on the umpire. In the future please don't 
blame the umpire every time you see a player kick, for 
he isn't always wrong, as some people would have you 
believe. 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 77 



Umpire's Equipment Very Important 

The position of an umpire is a hazardous one from 
any angle you consider it. Therefore it is a mark of 
wisdom for the umpire to afford himself every protection 
possible in going about his work. The judges of play 
cannot exercise too much care in selecting satisfactory 
equipment. 

A good mask is a most essential thing. It is hard 
to advise what style of mask is best, each umpire must 
be his own judge as to that part of his equipment. The 
stock of masks carried by Spalding is so varied that 
usually you can get a mask to suit by simply having 
the clerk in charge show the various styles and, by try- 
ing them on, you can reach a decision as to which style 
fits your face best, and conforms to your vision. 

Contrary to most umpires I like a very tight-fitting 
mask, that is heavily padded, and has a special rein- 
forced padding at the chin. I also like ear protection, 
but wear stationary pads which are fastened tight to 
the side of the mask and do not swing. Since I am often 
in Chicago during the American League season, I simply 
go out to the Spalding factory and have them make 
such a mask to suit me. It is possible for anyone to 
get a similar mask, at only a slight additional expense, 

Spalding's base ball catalogue, issued annually, contains pictures, descrip- 
tions and prices of everything needed for the game. Mailed free to any 
address. Write to Spalding store nearest to you (see list on inside front 
cover). 



78 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

or to have worked out any stunt they care to have put 
on the mask. 

A good protector is always a wise investment. There 
are two kinds, the rubber inflated and a papier machc 
and bamboo arrangement. The inflated protector is 
worn outside, while the other is worn under the coat. 
I prefer the rubber protector, simply because I think it 
affords the better protection. However, that is merely a 
matter of opinion. The other style has to be made to order. 

Great care should be used in the selection of shoes. 
No umpire should be without a pair of the special um- 
pire shoes now being made by Spalding. I wouldn't 
care to work back of the bat without a pair of these 
wonderful shoes. When I think of the injuries I used 
to suffer because of being hit on the instep or toes by 
a foul tip, I can hardly understand why no one thought 
of the present shoe sooner. With its strong box toe 
and padded tongue, it is absolutely impossible to suffer 
a foot injury. The shoe is so made that one can run at 
top speed without any inconvenience. Major league um- 
pires use two pairs, wearing the ordinary shoe on the 
bases, the special one when working balls and strikes. 

A pair of shin guards, which also have a special knee 
protection, an aluminum protector which fastens around 
the waist, and an indicator, are a few of the other neces- 
sities. Of course, no athlete would think of going on 
the ball field without wearing a "Bike" suspensory. 

With the above equipment, a good pair of eyes and 
plenty of nerve, umpiring is a nice job, and, as 'the 
late Tim Hurst always said, *'You can't beat the hours, 
3 to 5." 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 79 



Umpire Should be Familiar With 
Changes in Rules 

By John B. Foster, 
Editor Spalding's Official Base Ball Guide. 

Properly speaking, in regard to the changes in the 
playing rules of the national game, we should not say 
the ''new base ball rules." It should be the "amendments 
to the old rules." Somehow It comes easier to say "new 
rules" and for a long time to come, perhaps until other 
rule changes are adopted, the modifications which were 
put into effect in 1920 will be known as the "new rules." 

Had the changes not been so radical there would not 
have been so much of a tendency to refer to them as the 
"new rules." When I was a member of the rules com- 
mittee in 1914 some minor changes were made in the 
rules, but they were very minor as compared with the 
changes made in 1920, and no one grouped them col- 
lectively as "new rules." 

For awhile no doubt there will be boast that the rules 
have not done all that was expected in curing the "freak" 
deliveries. Time will show the protests to be unavailing 
and it will also show that "freak" deliveries either were 
creatures of the imagination or that they have been elimi- 
nated. For my part I think about fifty per cent, of the 
"freak" delivery was ball playeps' gossip. I know at 
least one player who complairyi more often and Insisted 

X 



J 



8o SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

more combatively than almost any other player with 
whom I have an acquaintance that the loss of his batting 
average was due to ''freak" pitching. An oculist quietly 
informed me that there was a more potent reason than 
*'freak" pitching. 

But whether incipient myopia or slippery elm and soap- 
stone are primary causes in curtailing batting it will be 
found after the pitching amendments have got well under 
way that the day of artificial aids to pitching is done. 
Dead and done and "some more." The pitcher in the 
future can do nothing with the ball except pitch it as it 
comes to him. Indeed, he must be careful as to the con- 
dition in which he receives it. If some other ball player 
has soiled it or rubbed it with a bit of sandpaper, or 
smeared it with some fluid which is not within the scope 
of the rule, the pitcher is liable to be removed from the 
game. It will be severe to be thrown out of a game and 
also incur a ten-day suspension for something for which 
one is not guilty. It will be a very foolish pitcher on 
any base ball club who takes that chance. There may be 
pitchers who would gladly be thrown out every ten days 
or so. One suspension after another would be perfect joy 
to them, but after about two suspensions no doubt there 
would be a noise from the office of the president of the 
club which would sound like .tearing up a check and 
another ball player's salary would be trimmed without as 
much as asking by his leave. 

The ball must be kept in much the same condition as 
when it was removed by the"* umpire from the box in 
which it was contained. Of course there will be the wear 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 8i 

and tear of the game. How else could the ball be used? 
But there must not be surreptitious rubbing of its cover 
on rough substances, nor must the cover be saturated 
with foreign liquids. Saliva is barred. The young player 
and the old player may not even expectorate in the pitch- 
ing glove and rub the ball around on the palm of the 
glove. More than that, the pitcher may not rub the ball 
in his gloved hand, whether the palm of the glove is dry 
or moist. The reason for this is not that base ball is to 
be less manly, but that it is to be more manly. Real 
athletics call for tests of skill by mental and muscular 
effort. Base ball prior to 1920, as regards pitching, was 
a test of skill with some players, not more than fifty per 
cent., and a test of combinations of physical strength, a 
very feeble knowledge of curves, little or no knowledge 
of change of pace, and not much of pitching strategy on 
the part of the other fifty per cent. The worst pa^'t of 
the introduction of the artificial elements in base ball, 
particularly pitching, was that some of the real good 
pitchers got into the habit of fooling with freak perform- 
ances. They tried experiments now and then which they 
would better have avoided. The pitcher got to be less 
and less a part of the game as relates to the parity of 
fielders, catchers and outfielders. If he were a ''freak" 
pitcher and not maich of anything else his team mates 
looked for a good game only so far as his "freaks" were 
under control. If they did not behave properly they 
knew that the game might be lost at any time, and it is a 
fact, which seemed not to have been noticed by all of the 
critics, that most managers — most wise managers in any 



S2 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

event — always kept a pitcher well warmed up on the day 
when a ''freak" pitcher was to start a game. 

Every base ball enthusiast should welcome back the 
return of real pitching. All of us are going to see, if we 
live long enough, a new type of pitcher, not new in the 
sense that there never have been any like it in the past, 
but new in the sense that we have not had many like it 
in the immediate past. 

When we can get our small boys, who will be the big 
pitchers some day, to emulate such men as Clarkson, 
Keefe, Welch, King, McCormick, Goldsmith, Corcoran, 
Nichols, Young, Mathewson — the list would be longer 
than that were it necessary to cite more names — we will 
begin to have base ball in which human intelligence has 
taken a plunge back again into the middle of the diamond. 
The ''freak" pitchers have made their reputations in their 
time, but they will always be classified as "freak" pitchers. 
They never will enjoy the fame in the base ball world 
which began with a performance like that of Albert G. 
Spalding, who won game after game when brains and 
control of the ball were real tests of a pitcher's ability. 

Other changes have been made in the rules. One of 
them has to do with the intentional base on balls to a 
batter. The rule makers tried to make it easier for the 
batter. Perhaps that is not quite right. Perhaps I should 
have said they tried to make a base on balls look more 
like a base on balls. I am afraid that they have not 
helped the situation much, although it will be out of the 
question for the catcher to move a long distance to either 
side of the plate to catch the ball from the pitcher's de- 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY ^ 

livery. A base on balls may be given as it always has 
been given. A little more skill may be required by the 
pitcher in giving it, but not so much more after all. 
When the pitcher is making it appear that he is is en- 
deavoring to pass the batter there will be quite as much 
clamor from the stands as ever there was, but it will not 
make a particle of difference with the manager who is 
seeking to win a ball game and whose idea of winning the 
game is to keep a particular batter from having a ch'^nce 
to make a home run, especially if that particular batter 
happens to be of the type who can make home runs. 

The squeeze play has been made rather safe for the 
team at bat. That is a point which seems to have been 
overlooked. If I were a manager in 1920 I believe that 
1 would not hesitate to try the squeeze play now and then, 
even if I did not like it very well as a strategy. The 
catcher may not do much of anything with the ball if the 
batter and the runner are in "cahoots" trying to get the 
runner home. The umpire, if he believes that the catcher 
has interfered, may permit the runner to score and the 
batter to go to first base. There are not many penalties 
in base ball so severe as that. Usually, only one out is 
allowed, but here is a double header out which can tie a 
score or win a game. 

A great deal was done to clear up disputed points in 
the rules. For that everybody will be thankful. It may 
be a long time before another change is made in the code, 
but they can stand rewriting even as they exist today, and 
rewriting would simplify and clarify them far beyond 
the conception of those who have to deal with them daily. 



84 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

The small boy is bothered by the archaic manner in which 
many of the rules are worded. Even the large boy has 
his troubles. Thank goodness most of the boys have a 
good grounding in the game itself and that is worth a 
lot. At any rate I have tried to make a start in telling 
by explanatory notes for the rules in Spalding's Official 
Base Ball Guide — the first time this has ever been done 
in base ball, by the way — what is the intent and meaning 
of the text, and although it is but a start, nevertheless it 
may serve to eliminate many disputes that arise during 
the course of a season. The reader would be surprised if 
he saw the number of queries that come daily during the 
playing season to the office of the Guide, asking for the 
editor's decision on points of play. They come by mail, 
telegraph and telephone, and come continuously. From 
Newfoundland to the Philippines they all "want to 
know." 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 85 



(< 



Knotty Problems" 



In the first edition of Mr. Evans' book, "How to 
Umpire," the publishers included a number of the 
"Knotty Problems" that had appeared in the Spalding 
Guide for several years previously. Mr. Evans also 
added a few that had arisen during the course of his 
experience in the American League. 

These "Knotty Problems" met with instant approval, 
not only from umpires but from players and "fans." 
They served to enlighten many who had wrong concep- 
tions of the meaning of certain rules and did a great deal 
to smooth the path of the arbitrator. 

A suggestion, however, has been made by a number of 
readers that in its former size the book was too bulky for 
pocket use and easy reference, and it has been decided 
therefore to make separate books of the instructions for 
umpires and of the "Knotty Problems." "How to Um- 
pire" will be published hereafter in its present shape and 
listed as No. 81R in the Spalding Athletic Library series, 
price 25 cents ; while "Knotty Problems" has been brought 
up to date with many new examples that have arisen 
since the first edition was printed, including a number 
that are based upon the rules as revised in 1920, these 
changes in the rules of base ball rendering some of the 
former problems obsolete. The new edition of "Knotty 
Problems" will be known as No. 75R in the Spalding 
Athletic Library series and will cost 25 cents. 



86 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY. 



Some New Books on Base Ball 

Hoiv to Bat. By John B, Foster, editor of Spalding's Official 
Base Ball Guide and Spalding's Official Base Ball Record. 
Spalding Athletic Library series No. 80R. Price 25 cents. 

It has been demonstrated that the boy who is a beginner in 
base ball — and the beginner who may not invariably be a boy — 
is helped a great deal by the information which he receives 
from practical instruction about outdoor games. Once there 
was a time when people were a Httle inclined to scoff at the 
iaea of instruction. It was their impression that all games were 
"sort o' acquired second nature." That belief has been well 
corrected. 

In any book of instruction which is written by one with prac- 
tical knowledge there may be one hint or one statement of 
value which is worth the reading of the book and many times 
its cost. 

In his new book, "How to Bat," Mr. Foster, who has been 
long associated with base ball in all capacities, has obtained his 
information from the fountain source. One by one the various 
topics that help to make a good batter are touched upon. 

In "How to Bat" the value of good batting is emphasized. 
The "attack" in the strategy of base ball is one of its most 
interesting features. Some think it is the most interesting. For 
that reason the subject of bunting is taken up, the theory and 
good effect of the sacrifice is discussed, the theory of the hit- 
and-run play is outlined, the beginner is told a great deal about 
placing hits, which, by the way, is a sure token of expertness 
en the part of a player, and the best methods of "straightout" 
batting are outlined. 

Hozv to Pitch. Compiled by J. Ed Wray, sport expert for the 
St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Spalding Athletic Library series 
No. 79R. Price 25 cents. 

Keeping pace with the changes in the rules, which have read- 
justed all the theories about pitching, the writer of this most 
recent work has gone into the subject of serving the ball to the 
batter from every standpoint. It is a work of instruction and 
analysis as well as one of sound advice. 

Explanation is given of the curves and the best use to which 
they can be put during a ball game. The beginner is told how 
to effect change of pace and is also given sound advice as to 
how he should pitch to batters. The matter of control is empha- 



SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 87 

s'zed and the author has made a very practical demonstration 
as to one way in which control can be obtained. Of course, it 
is based on practise, but all of the good points in base ball are 
brought out by practise. 

The beginner is told how to keep in condition and what to do 
to keep in condition. Excellent advice is given him as to what 
is best for the ball player. Even if during the summer season 
one plays in nothing but amateur games, it is better to follow 
sound and sane methods of diet and general work than to 
indulge in foods or dainties which are not the proper thing for 
the human body. 

New and original diagrams show many points in base ball 
which are at the best not well understood by the beginner, but 
which the diagrams may make more clear. Mention is made 
of the "freak ball" pitching, but as the day of "freak" pitching 
is gone in base ball no extended analysis is entered into, and 
the beginner is advised, as a matter of fact, not to fool with 
the "freak deliveries," as they are called. They will simply 
spoil him for better work. 

There are chapters by the best authorities in base ball on the 
various points of good pitching. Walter Johnson has something 
to say, and so have other pitchers who have made reputations 
for themselves on the base ball field. It is certain that every 
player who is interested in pitching will find this book so full 
of valuable information that he is bound to improve his own 
style. 

Base Ball for Boys. Compiled by John B. Sheridan, sport expert 
for the St. Louis Globe-Democrat and the originator of the 
small size diamond for boys adopted by the National and 
American Leagues at their annual meetings at Chicago, 1920. 
Spalding Athletic Library series No. 365. Price 10 cents. 

This is a new book on the game of base ball for the "small 
boy." It is written simply and plainly from an instructive stand- 
point. It is of value to the beginner of older years, but its 
main purpose is to encourage the little fellow to develop by 
right methods his inborn desire to play base ball well. 

Sound advice is given about pitching. If the learner begins 
to pitch the right way he will get into the thick of base ball 
with much more interest than if he performs for the better part 
of his boyhood days as an awkward novice. The author pro- 
vides helps for batting. He gives points on the right way to 
play to make runs, and runs are what win ball games. All 
through the work the aim of the author has been to teach base 
ball by contrast. That is, to point out the incorrect ways and 
then cite the correct way, with the testimony of some expert to 
illustrate the correct way. 



88 SPALDING'S ATHLETIC LIBRARY 

In connection with the adoption of an "official diamond" and 
an official base ball for boys it is assured that all of their 
matches in the future will take on more of a "real champion- 
ship" than they have in the past. Mr. Sheridan has labored to 
make it plain to the boys who will compete in the games on 
their "own diamond" what poHcy is best to be pursued when- 
ever an emergency arises in a game. There are "emergencies" 
ir boys' games exactly as there are in the games of the "grown- 
ups" and possibly one mistake which has been made in recent 
years is that of paying too little attention to the small boys* 
"emergencies." 



Every boy should be familiar with the rules of the game that 
he plays, especially since the base ball rules have been changed. 
Spalding's Guide contains the official rules, together with expla- 
nations — something that has not been done in base ball rules 
before — and a number of new "Knotty Problems." For those 
who wish to carry the rules only on the field, the rules section 
has been bound separately in such a manner that it can be 
extracted without damaging the rest of the book. All the other 
features that have made the Guide so popular in the past are 
included. Price 25 cents. 

For complete list of books of the Spalding Athletic Library 
series, see front pages. 



S PALP INC 

Play Ball 

Every player, manager, coach — and 
umpire — -should send for a copy 
of the new Spalding catalogue. 
Mailed free from A. G. Spalding 8C 
Bros, (see list of stores on inside 
front cover) 




THE SPALDING (i 



Spalding "Official National League ' Ball 



(REG. U.S. PAT. OFF.) 



The 

Official Ball 

of the 

World 

Series 




Adopted 
by the 

National 
League 

^ Patent 

Cork Center 



No. 1. Used in all Championship games. Double 
"CORK stitched, red and black Each, (tO CA 

• $2^.00 Doz. ^^•^yf 

SPALDING RUBBER CORE LEAGUE BALL 

No. 1 A. Pure Para rubber center. Superior to any other rubber center ball made. 

Best quality throughout Each, $2.00 * $21.00 Doz. 

SPALDING 
"OFFICIAL NATIONAL LEAGUE" JR. BALL 

Reg. U. S. Pat. Off. 
No. Bl. Patent cork center, slightly smaller in size 
than our"Official National League'*(Re8.U.S.Pat.Off.) 

Ball No. 1 Each. $1.75 

MINOR LEAGUE 
No. 2, Full size. Yarn wound. Horsehide cover. 

League quality Each, $1.50 

SPALDING MATCH 
No. 4. Full size. Horsehide cover. Each, $1.00 

SPALDING JUNIOR PROFESSIONAL 
No. 7B. Slightly under regular size. Horsehide 

cover. Carefully made Each, 55c. 

SPALDING KING OF THE DIAMOND 

No. 5. Full size; has horsehide cover. Each. 5Sc. 

No. 8. SPALDING LEAGUE JUNIOR. A popu- 

lar boys* size ball. Karatol cover. . Each, 30c. 

No. 6. STAR. Full size. Karatol cover Each, 30c. 

No. 12. BOYS' FAVORITE. A good boys* size; two-piece cover. " 20c. 

No. 13. ROCKET. Two-piece cover. Boys* size , . . . " 12c. 

The 'prices printed in italics opposite items marked with if will be quoted only 
on orders for one-half dozen or more at one time. Quantity prices not allowed on 
it ems not marked with if 




No. Bl 



PROMPT MENTION 6IVEN TO I 

m COMMUNICHTIONS 

«00«tSSED TO US 



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STORES IN ALL LARGE CITIES 



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OF THIS mi 



PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICF. f„. r .-,Huu, , 



1 C4ii»<li«s KMaiogiM 








A swift foul tip 
hurts just as much 
in the minors as it 
does in the big 
leagues — 

Umpire is the one position on the ball 
field that requires "big league" equipment 
all the time. The umpire cannot afford to 
risk the use of doubtful equipment. He, 
of all participating in the game, requires 
substantial protection. Spalding umpires* 
paraphernalia is made not only along the 
most approved lines but also with the con- 
tinual thought of its ultimate use. 

SPALDING UMPIRES' MASKS 

No. UO. "Super-Protected." Wires support each other 
and are arranged according to an entirely new 
principle of construction. Bye opening is straight 
across. Fitted with extra padded chin protection ■ 
and folding special padded ear pieces. .. Each, $11.00 
SPALDING U3IPIKES' BODY PROTECTORS 
Give length and width required when ordering Um- 
pires' Body Protectors. 
No. L. Inflated. Large size, best quality .Each, .$13.50 
No. LS. Inflated. Special light weight, soft, rubber 

tube, special orders only Each, $20.00 

No. UW. Umpires. Padded style, not inflated 9,00 
No. R. Inflated. Correct model. Cover of good ma- 
terial. Flexible inflating tube Each, $12.00 

SPALDING SPECL4L UMPIRES' SHOES 

No. 31UP. Special Umpires' Shoes (patent applied 

for). Solid box toe and outside papped tongue. 

Uppers of selected leather; white oak leather soles, 

fitted with best baseball cleats. To order only, not 

carried in stock Pair, $21.00 

SPALDING U3IPIRES' LEG GUARDS 
No. RB. Plain style, fiber leg piece, not ribbed. 

Leather padded at ankle and knee Pair, $8.00 

SPALDING UMPIRE INDICATOR 
No. O. Made of celluloid; exact size, 3x1% inches. 
Endorsed and used by all League umpires. 

Each, "Joe 




LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS 



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